It took those last days of Lent to really drive the point home that salvation is wildly unpredictable. It's not something I understand – why seasons of spiritual earnestness must be punctuated here and there with unforeseen episodes of crashing and burning. I take comfort always in the example of the Apostle Peter who thrice denied his beloved Christ, and beat his breast over it, was wracked with agonizing regret, and yet came through to the other side of that self-disgust more in awe of his Christ- Jesus' Passion, His controversial message of humility and Love, His miraculous Resurrection – than ever.

This year, I'm approaching Holy Week like the prodigal son, head bowed, still reeking of my infirmities and foolishness, more keenly aware than usual of how thoroughly undeserving I am of this the Feast of all Feasts. Does this not blow your mind?!

And he shows mercy upon the last, and cares for the first; and to the one he gives, and upon the other he bestows gifts. And he both accepts the deeds, and welcomes the intention, and honors the acts and praises the offering. Wherefore, enter you all into the joy of your Lord; and receive your reward, both the first, and likewise the second. You rich and poor together, hold high festival. You sober and you heedless, honor the day. Rejoice today, both you who have fasted and you who have disregarded the fast. The table is full-laden; feast ye all sumptuously. The calf is fatted; let no one go hungry away.

- from St. John Chrysostom's Paschal Homily

Holy Week and Pascha contain the purest Joy there is – Joy unattached to circumstances or accomplishments, unfettered by potential loss – Joy whole, complete, in and of itself – Joy untainted by disappointment, Joy undiluted, Joy victorious! I feel hope welling up like a spring in my soul, that just a little while ago had seemed dry and barren as a desert. I'm preparing for Jesus' death with a song of triumph on my lips: Christ is Risen, Christ is Risen, Christ is Risen!

4 Comments

Beautiful poem and reflection. I was so smitten with the Bridegroom service last evening. The ability to stand alone without moving, without readjusting a child on my hip, without leaving and really listen and look was such a gift. I was moved the most by the gospel reading of the necessity of the seed falling into the ground and dying in order to bear fruit, as well as Christ’s glory being found on the cross. There was also a hymn that spoke of our soul dead in sin, praying that as was Lazarus was raised after four days dead, I too would be raised. These are my favorite days. When temporal time begins to morph into the eternal and things begin to quiet down. And yes, dear one, always miss you so much during this time. Know that I will be thinking and praying for you as I am dyeing those eggs tomorrow.

So who copied whom? I know I posted later than you, so I’ll take the hit. Grateful for your thoughts after the poem, my muddled brain didn’t have the wherewithal to add much. There is a lot going on in this heart and this brain. Suffice to say I am SO GLAD that Easter is coming!

I loved and needed this comment, Beth. Thank you. And I am so glad to hear you were able to soak in that service fully! Oh, the eggs! How are we not together for the eggs?! sigh. Peace and hope to you, dearest.

I love that you also picked that poem, Kris! We are kindred spirits. Yes, Easter is coming! Embrace the joy of the Resurrection with your darling family, and stop by and see us on Sunday afternoon. : )